Tear Film Break-Up Time before and after Watching a VR Video: Comparison between Naked Eyes and Contact Lens Wearers

Abstract

The impact of viewing VR videos using a head-mounted display (HMD) on tear film dynamics is examined by comparing the viewing experience of individuals using their naked eyes with that of viewers wearing contact lenses. While the impact of VR on eye dryness has been studied, there is limited research on the risks for contact lens wearers. This study aims to investigate eye dryness associated with VR use in individuals wearing soft contact lenses. Seventeen adults in their 20s (7 male, 10 female) with uncorrected visual acuity of 0.8+ participated. The non-invasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT) was assessed before and after a 20 min VR video session under two conditions: with and without soft contact lenses. The results indicated a decrease in the initial tear film break-up time and an increase in the average tear film break-up time when viewing with naked eyes, whereas viewing with contact lenses led to decreases in both parameters, with statistically significant changes observed. Although the alteration in the tear film break-up time was insignificant during VR video viewing with naked eyes, the tear film stability of individuals wearing soft contact lenses tended to decrease. Caution is advised when using soft contact lenses during VR video sessions to mitigate potential eye dryness.